UNFI · 1 day ago
Vice President Automation
Providence, RI
Full-time
Hybrid
Director/Executive
$182K/yr - $309K/yr
15+ years expUNFI is a leading distributor in the grocery industry, and they are seeking a Vice President of Automation to lead their automation strategy. This role involves planning, analysis, solution design, project management, and ensuring the operational sustainability of automation investments across the distribution network.
Food and BeverageHealth CareHospitalityOrganic Food
Responsibilities
Design, implement, and execute the warehouse automation strategy including full case solutions, unit pick systems and emerging technology to support UNFI’s Transformation Strategy associates with Network Optimization & Automation for the distribution network
Drive the development of project justification including solution engineering and cost/benefit required to obtain approval for implementation
Lead the project team responsible for the installation, commissioning, testing, and production planning associated with the project implementation, including on-time and on-budget execution
Collaborate with real estate, construction, facility management and vendors to integrate the automation solution into the distribution centers including floor conditions, electrical and pneumatic energy supply, fire protection, lighting, etc. and permitting requirements
Lead IT integration requirements including hardware and software necessary to meet business/functional requirements by directly collaborating with internal IT teams, WMS vendors, and solution providers
Responsible for implementation of management, maintenance, and operations procedures and training to support a successful project implementation and sustained production environment
Design and implement a process to validate the project ROI is realized by establishing contractual obligations holding responsible parties accountable, determining pre-production acceptance criteria, post-production rate testing and full project realization analysis
Performs other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in business or related field or equivalent work experience
15+ years of experience in distribution operations including mechanization and automated order fulfillment solutions
Success implementing warehouse automation and control systems
Experience leading and developing a high performing team
Experience with distribution operations processes including mechanization and automation technology
Experience with building and facility maintenance including the proven ability to manage maintenance by leveraging CMMS
Knowledge of systems: WMS, WCS, and PLC controls associated with the automation solution integration and management
Knowledge of regulatory compliance codes and experience in municipality permitting processes
Understanding of financial/accounting principles and operational budgeting
Proficient computer skills including Excel, MS Word, MS Project, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, and BI software platforms
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and managerial skills
Demonstrated projected management and successful implementation of complex initiatives
Proven ability to effectively manage accountability and measure to hold self and others accountable for performance results
Ability to establish direct relationships and display excellent customer service focus
Ability to execute with speed, agility, and organization to achieve established goals despite challenges
Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available
Preferred
5+ years of project management preferred
Benefits
Paid Time Off
Sick Time
Paid holidays and parental leave
401K Program
Medical, dental, vision, life, and accidental death/dismemberment insurance
Short-term and long-term disability insurance program
Flexible Spending Account and/or Health Savings Account
Company
UNFI
UNFI is North America’s Premier Food Wholesaler.
10001+ employees
H1B Sponsorship
UNFI has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (6)
2024 (2)
2023 (4)
2022 (4)
Funding
Current Stage
Public CompanyTotal Funding
$507.1M2024-04-25Post Ipo Debt· $500M
2014-07-15Post Ipo Equity· $7.1M
1996-11-01IPO
Leadership Team
Sandy Douglas
Chief Executive Officer
Giorgio Matteo Tarditi
President and CFO
Recent News
Digital Commerce 360
2025-12-17
San Gabriel Valley Tribune
2025-12-03
Company data provided by crunchbase